More Americans Using Their Mobile Phones For Matters Of The Heart (NAPSA)—So much for whispering sweet nothings. It seems that texting and social networking sites may be the new way to show you care—andthat you don’t. A recent survey of 500 Americans aged 18 and abovefoundthat nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of us have made date via text messaging. But it’s not only for good news that we’re using technology. When a relationship goes south, we turn to technology to break the news: Roughly one in every 10 (11 percent) of us have used text messaging to end a romantic relationship and 7 percent have ended a relationship via a social networking site on their mobile device. And when it comes to getting your true love’s undivided attention, even die-hard roman-techs may find themselves turning off their date’s mobile device. Thirtytwo percent of respondents said they have answered a text message during a romantic dinner and more than one in 10 (11 percent) have interrupted a romantic engagement or dinner to respond to a social networking message. Texting Takes Over People seem to love to stay in touch while on the move whether they’re in a relationship or not. In fact, the survey, commissioned by Nokia, found that more than two- thirds of us (69 percent) send text messages at least once a day and about one-quarter access a social networking site from their phone daily. laid off via text message. About 12 percent have actually doneit. Smarter Messaging As people become more tied to being in touchat all times, mobile phones are evolving to makeit easier to text, e-mail and message via social networkingsites. For instance, the Nokia E71x from AT&T was designed for messaging. It’s the thinnest QWERTY smartphone on the market and has high-speed 3G service and Wi-Fi so you can stay connected Get The Message—A survey found that many mobile phone users would rather text than talk. And, perhaps more surprising, more than half of respondents would choose texting or e-mailing if they had to use only one communication method for two weeks. Making voice calls as the only means of communicating for two weekstrailed in second place. Getting Down To Business According to the survey, messaging and social networking are even used to stay ahead in a tough economy. Eleven percent said they have secured a business deal via text and 6 percent have successfully used a social networkingsite such as Facebook to find new business. And when bad business news does strike, people tend to reach for their mobile phone and text their news. Nearly one in three, or 29 percent, say it is acceptable to tell friends or family they just got wherever you are. In addition to great texting features, the Nokia E71x also includes a built-in music player, a 3.2-megapixel autofocus camera, and AT&T Nav- igator to help you find your way— maybe to a date you just made via text message. Whatever phone you use, rememberto follow some simple messagingrules: Stay Safe—Never text, email or surf your favorite social networking site while driving. If you absolutely must send a message, safely pull off the roadfirst. Consider Your Surroundings—Be smart—and polite— about when and where you message. Don’t neglect those you’re with to communicate with others. When in Doubt, Spell it Out—Remember that not everyone you text or e-mail will under- stand the shorthand you might use from your mobile device. For more information, visit www.nokiausa.com.
